peoney

My one is at about the same stage. Won't be long now.

this state is showing just another aspect of it´s beauty. I often feel the same: the sprouting leaves and stems have their own character. It´s not only the flowers, since most of the shrubs have only 1 or 2 weeks to flower and are beautiful all the year.

Yes, it won't be long for mine either. Peonies have to be one of my favorites. There prettier then a rose, bigger, no thorns & smell great. Big blooms with long stems. I currently have five. I had to buy their own cages so they don't droop if it rains. As you said Nelke the sprouting leaves and buds are just another part of the beautiful process.